Buying a Network Configuration Management System

How much do network configuration management tools cost?

Both paid and open-source configuration management software options exist, and some basic configuration management tasks can be automated with free tools such as Microsoft PowerShell or Group Policy. Many vendors also provide free tools to manage their hardware... although paid tools might provide more advanced features, better support for more types of devices, or be easier to use.

Paid tools often charge by the number of devices managed or by the number processors supported on servers running the software. There is also sometimes a charge for ongoing support of software as well.

In general, open-source software takes a little bit more tinkering to get working the way you want it vs a paid product. There might also be multiple tiers of config management tools as well, with a free version providing limited functionality vs a “pro” or “enterprise” version.

Most open-source configuration management software runs on Linux (also open-source). Just because software is open-source doesn't mean you can't get support for it, but your will have to pay for a support contract.

As a rule of thumb, individuals or very small businesses can get by using open-source or free software solutions. But as a company grows, they’ll likely want to purchase additional functionality and support.